Is It Really That Bad to Share a Bar of Soap

You’re in the shower and realize you forgot your soap. Grabbing your partner’s bar seems like the obvious solution but is it actually sanitary? While the thought of sharing soap might seem questionable, the reality is it’s not as bad as you might think, as long as you take a few precautions.

Can Bacteria Live on Bar Soap?

Surprisingly, soap isn’t completely self-cleaning. Studies have shown that bacteria can linger on bar soap after use. One study published in the Indian Journal of Dental Research found that bars of soap could harbor two to five different types of bacteria, while a hospital-based study in the American Journal of Infection Control reported that 62% of bar soaps tested were contaminated.

Some of the germs that could potentially transfer through shared soap include:

• E. coli, salmonella, and shigella–Bacteria commonly found in fecal matter.

• Staph bacteria–Can cause skin infections, especially if there are cuts or wounds.

• Norovirus and rotavirus–Viruses that spread through contaminated surfaces and cause gastrointestinal illness.

While this might sound alarming, the risk of actually getting sick from shared soap is low, especially if you’re only using it within your household.

How to Safely Share Soap

If you and a partner or roommate share a bar of soap, follow these hygiene-friendly tips to minimize bacteria buildup:

1. Rinse the Soap Before and After Use

Running the soap under warm water for a few seconds before and after using it helps wash away any lingering bacteria.

2. Lather Thoroughly

Bacteria cling to soap bubbles, which are then rinsed down the drain. Aim for 20 to 30 seconds of lathering to ensure a good cleanse.

3. Keep Soap Dry Between Uses

Bacteria thrive in moist environments, so storing soap in a wet, enclosed dish allows germs to multiply. Use a ventilated soap dish that allows air circulation and keeps the bar dry.

When Should You Avoid Sharing Soap?

While sharing a bar of soap is generally safe, there are certain situations where it may be best to use your own:

• If someone in your household is sick–Viruses and bacteria can transfer through shared hygiene products.

• If you have cuts, scrapes, or open wounds–Broken skin increases the risk of bacterial infections.

• If young children are using it–Kids may not always use soap properly, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.

Best Alternatives to Bar Soap

If the idea of sharing soap still makes you uncomfortable, consider switching to liquid soap or body wash, which is less likely to harbor bacteria. Opt for a pump dispenser with a sealed soap container, which eliminates direct contact and reduces contamination risks.

The Bottom Line

Sharing a bar of soap isn’t as unsanitary as you might think, especially if you take steps to keep it clean and dry. However, if you prefer a germ-free option, liquid soap is the safest choice. At the end of the day, the most important thing is to wash your hands properly and regularly, as recommended by the CDC.

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